Is foster care training free for applicants?

Free applicant training means that the preparation courses required as part of your fostering application are funded by the fostering organisation rather than charged to you as a separate course fee. This allows you to learn about the responsibilities involved before deciding whether fostering is right for your household.

The training is normally connected to the assessment process. It helps you understand how fostering affects day-to-day family life and gives you an opportunity to consider the needs of children who may have experienced loss, neglect, abuse or disrupted relationships. It also helps the assessing team understand how you reflect on new information, work with professionals and apply safeguarding guidance.

Topics covered may include:

• safeguarding and safer caring;
• child development, attachment and the effects of trauma;
• supporting children’s emotional, behavioural and educational needs;
• working with birth families, social workers, schools and other professionals;
• health, safety, confidentiality and record keeping;
• equality, diversity and identity; and
• managing allegations, complaints and concerns appropriately.

Training is not a payment or allowance for making an application. It is part of the preparation and assessment support provided to prospective foster carers. Foster carers may receive financial support after approval, but this is separate from the cost of applicant training and depends on the fostering arrangement and the applicable payment information.

Although the training itself does not carry a separate applicant fee, it is sensible to ask what practical costs you may need to arrange yourself. For example, clarify whether you need to pay for travel, parking, refreshments, childcare or any equipment connected with attending a session. These details can vary according to the course arrangements and your individual circumstances, so they should be confirmed with the fostering team before training begins.

Free training does not mean that attendance is optional. Applicants are expected to take part in the required preparation, complete any associated learning activities and show that they understand the responsibilities of fostering. If you cannot attend a scheduled session, tell the team as early as possible so they can explain the available arrangements and whether any missed learning must be completed later.

Training continues after approval. Foster carers receive further learning to maintain and develop their skills, with some subjects requiring regular updating. The organisation can explain which preparation is required before approval, what must be completed during the assessment and how ongoing training is managed once you become a foster carer.

Before applying, ask for a clear explanation of:

• which training is compulsory for applicants;
• when it takes place in relation to your assessment;
• how attendance and participation are recorded;
• whether any related expenses are reimbursed or remain your responsibility; and
• what further training will be expected after approval.

Become a Foster Family provides guidance, training and ongoing assistance throughout the fostering journey. Speaking with the team will help you understand the full training pathway and identify any practical arrangements you need to consider before starting your application.